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5 Things to Know Today: Tariffs, a CPI Surprise, and the Mortgage Rate Gap

  July 21, 2026 A new round of US tariffs, a surprise inflation dip, and a widening gap between fixed and variable mortgage rates are all moving in different directions today. Here's what's happening and what it means for your money. 1. Washington hits Canada with new 50% tariffs on everyday goods The White House has announced fresh 50% tariffs on a wide list of Canadian exports, including wine, dairy, furniture, hockey equipment, cement, and clothing. The move is framed as retaliation over Canada's dairy quotas, car import rules, and provincial bans on US alcohol. The tariffs take effect August 19 and apply even to goods that would normally qualify duty-free under CUSMA, though energy, potash, fish, and critical minerals are exempt. What it means for you: This round targets export industries, not imports into Canada, so it won't directly raise shelf prices here the way a Canadian tariff on US goods would. The bigger risk is indirect — job pressure in affected sectors ...

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Trump Escapes Prison and Fines in Hush-Money Case

In a landmark decision, President-elect Donald Trump has avoided any prison time or fines in the hush-money case that has captivated the nation. On Friday, Judge Juan Merchan handed Trump an unconditional discharge, sparing him from jail time, fines, or probation. This ruling makes Trump the first convicted felon to hold the White House.

Trump was convicted in May on 34 counts of falsifying business records to cover up a $130,000 payment to adult film star Stormy Daniels during his 2016 presidential campaign. Despite the potential penalties of up to four years in prison and $5,000 in fines for each count, the judge opted for an alternative sentence, citing the unique circumstances of the case.

During the hearing, Trump maintained his innocence and described the case as a "tremendous setback" for the justice system. The decision has sparked widespread debate, with some praising the judge's discretion and others criticizing the lack of tangible consequences for the president-elect.

Trump's legal team has indicated plans to appeal the jury's verdict, but for now, he remains a convicted felon as he prepares to take office on January 20.

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